About Us

At the heart of our awards lies the Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year Award. For 40 years, this award has celebrated college football coaches who embody the leadership, dedication, and excellence exemplified by Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant himself. Each season, one remarkable coach from the NCAA is selected to receive the coveted “Bear” bust trophy and the title of Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year. This award not only highlights coaching achievements but also pays homage to Coach Bryant’s legacy through contributions to the American Heart Association.

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Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards

Coach Bryant was a leader, both on and off the field. He possessed the ability to inspire, the patience to teach, and the gift of leadership. The Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year Award salutes those coaches who have reached that same high standard of excellence. In addition to the Coach of the Year Award, the Bryant Awards also hosts the Lifetime Achievement Award Heart of a Champion Award for Coaches.

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Paul Bear Bryant Awards

Latest News & Media

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University of Houston Football Joins the Nation of Lifesavers

HOUSTON, July 16, 2026 – On Thursday, July 16, the University of Houston football team participated in an American Heart
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We’re in the game: Bear Bryant Award returns to EA SPORTS College Football 27

Prestigious American Heart Association college coaching award returns to the celebrated video game franchise for a second year
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